The Woman Haters refers to two notable works: a short story by American author Frank Norris, published in 1900, and a comedy short film starring The Three Stooges, released in 1934. Both works explore the comedic and often ironic premise of groups of men attempting to abstain from or denounce women, only to have their resolutions challenged and ultimately undermined.
Frank Norris's Short Story (1900)
The Woman Haters is a satirical short story written by Frank Norris, an American novelist known for his naturalistic works such as McTeague and The Octopus. It was published in McClure's Magazine in 1900.
Plot Summary
The story centers on a secret society of bachelors who have formed "The Woman Haters' Club." The members—a diverse group including a cynical professor, a disillusioned poet, and a timid clerk—gather regularly to vent their grievances against women and reinforce their collective vow to avoid romantic entanglements. Their sanctuary is disrupted by the arrival of an enigmatic and charming woman who, through a series of manipulative and cunning actions, systematically breaks down the resolve of each member. One by one, the woman haters find themselves falling prey to her charms, marrying her, or otherwise abandoning their misogynistic vows. The story culminates in the complete dissolution of the club and the triumph of the woman, highlighting the futility and hypocrisy of the men's stance.
Themes and Significance
Norris's story is a lighthearted yet sharp satire on misogyny, human nature, and the inevitability of attraction. It uses irony to expose the superficiality of the men's anti-woman sentiments, suggesting that their convictions are easily swayed by charm and societal pressures. While not as profound as his major novels, it showcases Norris's versatility and his ability to engage with social commentary through humor.
The Three Stooges Film (1934)
Woman Haters is a 1934 American comedy short film directed by Archie Gottler and starring The Three Stooges (Moe Howard, Larry Fine, and Curly Howard). It was the third film released by the Stooges for Columbia Pictures.
Plot Summary
The film begins with the Stooges—Moe, Larry, and Curly—being persuaded by their lawyer, played by Bud Jamison, to join "The Woman Haters' Club" and take an oath to forever renounce women. The lawyer, a staunch misogynist, believes women are nothing but trouble. However, immediately after taking the oath, Moe and Larry meet and fall for the same attractive woman, Mary (played by Marjorie White), a singer. In a series of farcical events, both Moe and Larry secretly marry Mary without the other's knowledge, and Curly similarly becomes smitten with another woman.
The bulk of the film's comedy stems from their frantic attempts to keep their marriages secret from the club and from each other, leading to elaborate lies, mistaken identities, and signature Stooges slapstick. The climax involves chaotic scenes in a courtroom as their deceit is uncovered, resulting in their eventual expulsion from the club and their comical reconciliation with their wives.
Production and Reception
Woman Haters is notable for being one of the earlier Stooges shorts that firmly established their comedic style, featuring fast-paced dialogue, exaggerated physical comedy, and musical numbers. The film's premise allowed for ample opportunity for the trio to display their unique brand of humor, and it remains a popular entry in their extensive filmography, showcasing their early career dynamics and interaction.